The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 160

Olivia

The following morning dawned bright and clear. I was up early, reviewing my notes on the Thompson Hotels project and mentally preparing for our meeting with Andrew Thompson.

Alexander had arranged for us to meet at The Terraces, an exclusive restaurant in Beverly Hills known for its impeccable service and discretion.

I carefully selected a navy blue dress that was professional yet flattering. I paired it with modest heels and subtle jewelry, as I wanted to look poised and confident.

“Ready?” Alexander asked, appearing in the doorway of our bedroom. He looked impeccable in a charcoal suit that emphasized his broad shoulders.

I nodded, smoothing down my dress one last time.

Alexander’s eyes softened as he approached me. “You look beautiful. And more importantly, you know this project better than anyone. Thompson would be a fool to go with any other proposal.”

His confidence in me was reassuring. “Thanks. Let’s go show him that.”

The drive to The Terraces was quiet, and both of us were lost in our thoughts. The morning traffic moved surprisingly well, and we arrived at the restaurant with time to spare.

The Terraces lived up to its reputation. Lush greenery surrounded elegant outdoor seating areas, while the interior featured soaring ceilings and tasteful artwork. A host immediately recognized Alexander and led us to a private dining area with a view of the gardens.

“Mr. Carter,” Andrew Thompson rose from his seat as we approached, extending his hand. “Punctual as always.”

“Mr. Thompson,” Alexander greeted him with a firm handshake. “Thank you for meeting with us on such short notice.”

Andrew turned to me with a warm smile. “Mrs. Carter, lovely to see you again.”

server immediately appeared to take our drink orders. Andrew and Alexander opted

say,” Andrew began once the server had departed, “I was surprised to receive your call yesterday. I thought our discussions with Mrs. Carter’s team had concluded

“That’s precisely why I wanted to speak with you.

rose slightly. “News

Alexander replied smoothly. “Especially when it concerns a

the conversation. I took the opportunity to study Andrew’s expression.

of his coffee. “We received an unexpected proposal from Penelope Langford. Quite comprehensive, I might

despite the tension building in my shoulders. “I wasn’t aware Ms. Langford’s firm

speaking,” Andrew admitted. “But she’s partnered

jaw tightened almost imperceptibly. “I

alternative proposal?” I asked, keeping my tone curious rather than

proposal was exceptional. But as a businessman, I’d be remiss not

analysis is part of any

authoritative, “that there are certain legal considerations when changing direction after a project has been initially approved. The contract your team signed with Carter Enterprises includes

didn’t look concerned. “We haven’t transferred the project to Ms.

Alexander replied. “But in the interest of transparency, I wanted to discuss

appreciatively. “Always the straight shooter.

apologetic expression. “Actually, I should mention that Penelope will be joining us shortly. I thought it might be productive for all parties to

was

at all,” Alexander replied smoothly. “In fact,

a sip of my water, using the moment to compose myself. The idea of meeting Alexander’s ex–fiancée while defending my work wasn’t how I’d planned to spend my

Alexander continued. “The Thompson Hotels rebrand proposal is

why I find myself in a curious position. Two excellent

near the entrance caught my attention. A woman was being escorted to our table

glided across the restaurant with practiced elegance, her hair falling in perfect waves around her shoulders. She